Sustainable Development and Disintegration of Soft Robots: An Overview

Abstract

The flexibility and resilience of soft robots in complex environments make them extremely versatile. Despite recent developments in the innovative potential of soft robotics, there is a lack of comprehensive studies that combine different methods of sustainability within soft robotics. This review paper focuses on the eco-friendliness of the manufacturing and design processes of soft robots, along with their performance under various conditions. Moreover, the life cycle of soft robots in alignment with SDGs is analyzed, the composition and decomposition of soft robots made from sustainable materials are discussed, and innovations that promote zero waste are highlighted. Several eco-friendly materials have demonstrated performance comparable to traditional materials. However, many soft robots struggle to deliver reliable and high-power performance over time. Sustainable soft robotics is a growing field that necessitates interdisciplinary collaboration and a deeper understanding of environmental properties to further drive innovation and technology.